Summer Solstice play reading: Tam Harvie’s Dyke
Free event, hosted by Rebel History Glasgow and Clyde Alive, Sunday 21st June 7pm
Gathering point: Where Thorndyke Lane meets the Clyde Walkway, what3words ///universally.open.riches
Find Thorndyke Lane opposite Helenslea Park on London Road. It’s a 10 minute walk down to the riverside.
Number 64 and 164 buses stop on London Road. Limited parking available onsite. Cycling encouraged.
We will go for a short stroll along the Clyde Walkway, with seating provided for those who need it, and a composting toilet available in the allotments.
What is the play about?
On midsummer’s evening in 1823, a group of local people from Parkhead, Tollcross and nearby places, took part in a seminal piece of direct action on the banks of the Clyde.
The public footpath along the river had been blocked by an enormous wall, topped with spikes, protected by guard dogs and cannons, with tons of broken glass dumped in the water to prevent people going around.
Here was an outrageous example of common land being enclosed as private property by a rich industrialist. The local weavers, and other workers, were not going to let it stand.
On midsummer’s evening, 203 years later, we celebrate their story.
Is there a stage?
No. There’s no stage. Nor actors. The play is written to be performed by the audience — that means you!
We will each get a copy of the script, cast the characters as we go along, and act out the scenes in the location where the real events took place.
So, if you’ve ever fancied getting together with fellow activists to take on a greedy landowner, come along and treat this as a dress rehearsal for present day struggles.
The play will take about an hour to perform. We will also sing a couple of songs, learn a bit more about the local area, and enjoy the midsummer light!
Top photograph: Clementine Sandison, Bottom photos: Graham McGrath